3-Day Taxi Tour: Small Tour, Big Tour & Outside Tour By English Speaking Driver

Explore Angkor and Beyond: A Balanced Look at the 3-Day Taxi Tour in Siem Reap

Planning a trip to Siem Reap and the Angkor region can feel overwhelming — there’s so much to see, do, and experience. That’s where a well-organized, private taxi tour can be a real game-changer. We’ve looked into a 3-day package offered by Cambodia Cab, and it seems perfect for travelers wanting an authentic, flexible, and comfortable way to explore Cambodia’s iconic temples and hidden gems.

What we love about this experience? First, the professional English-speaking drivers make navigation and communication smooth – no language barriers here. Second, the comfortable air-conditioned vehicles provide a relaxing way to travel between sites, especially after long temple walks. Third, the well-planned itinerary covers major highlights plus some less touristy spots, giving a balanced view of the region’s beauty. One thing to consider: the price of around $95.39 per person is quite reasonable, but it doesn’t include entry tickets or meals, so budget accordingly. This tour is ideal for visitors who want a curated, flexible experience without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Flexible 3-day private tour with experienced English-speaking drivers
• Comfortable air-conditioned transportation perfect for long days of sightseeing
• Visits to major temples like Angkor Wat, Bayon, and Ta Prohm, plus outside attractions
• Includes local lunch stops for experiencing Cambodian cuisine
• Stunning sunset experience at Phnom Bakheng (subject to weather)
• Affordable price point offering excellent value for a personalized experience
• Not included: entry tickets, food, and some optional extras like mountain passes
• Great for travelers seeking a hassle-free, in-depth exploration with authentic insights

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Taxi Tour

The Convenience and Comfort of Private Transportation

One of the biggest perks of booking a private taxi tour is the ease of getting around. The vehicles are described as clean and comfortable, and with fully vaccinated, professional drivers, you can relax knowing your safety and comfort are priorities. Many reviews highlight how helpful and friendly the drivers are, often sharing insights about Cambodia’s history and culture, which adds an educational layer to your visits. The fact that all drivers speak good English is a major plus — no awkward gestures or miscommunications as you navigate the sprawling temple complex.

Day 1: The Heart of Angkor Thom and Angkor Wat

Your first day kicks off at Angkor Thom South Gate, a grand entrance with towering stone faces and intricate carvings. While admission isn’t included, the site itself offers a captivating start to your adventure. From there, you’ll visit the Bayon Temple, famed for its smiling stone faces and detailed bas-reliefs. One reviewer noted that their driver was “very helpful at explaining the history and background of each attraction,” making the experience both educational and immersive.

Next, it’s on to Baphuon Temple, a stunning three-tiered structure dedicated to Shiva, and Terrace of the Elephants, where ancient carvings depict elephants and royal conquests. The Terrace of the Leper King is another highlight, famous for its mythic name and mysterious sculptures. Around midday, your driver will take you for lunch at a local Cambodian restaurant, giving you a taste of authentic cuisine.

The afternoon features Angkor Wat, the world’s largest religious monument. The 1.5-hour visit lets you marvel at its expansive bas-reliefs and breathtaking architecture. If weather permits, you can stay for the sunset at Phnom Bakheng, which requires a two-hour stay at the hilltop — many reviews mention how worthwhile this is, offering panoramic views of the Angkor landscape.

Day 2: Hidden Treasures and Lake Exploration

Day two begins with Banteay Srei, a beautifully preserved temple renowned for its detailed pink sandstone carvings, often called the “precinct of the ladies” thanks to its intricate decoration. Then, the journey takes you to Phnom Kulen National Park, a sacred site featuring a gigantic reclining Buddha, Cambodia’s largest waterfall, and the river of Shiva lingas — a holy site that many visitors find spiritually meaningful. On the way, you’ll stop for lunch again, sampling local flavors.

After lunch, the tour shifts to Tonle Sap Lake, Southeast Asia’s largest freshwater lake, where a private boat tour takes you through floating villages and stilt houses. Reviewers emphasize how this offers a glimpse into local life, especially during the rainy season when the lake is at its fullest.

Day 3: Sunrise, Jungle Temples, and Architectural Marvels

For the most iconic experience, travelers often choose the sunrise at Angkor Wat — an early start (leaving around 4:40 am) is recommended. Guests who’ve done this say it’s a “magical” moment, with the temple glowing in sunrise colors. Following breakfast, you’ll visit Ta Prohm, famous for its giant tree roots entwined with temple ruins — made even more memorable by films like Tomb Raider.

The afternoon includes several smaller temples: Pre Rup, a striking hilltop temple ideal for photos, East Mebon, built on an artificial island, and Ta Som and Neak Pean, both offering unique architecture and peaceful surroundings. The day wraps up at Preah Khan, a sprawling complex built in the 12th century, which many describe as a “must-see” for its labyrinthine passageways and evocative ruins.

What’s Included — and What’s Not

This tour provides professional drivers, private air-conditioned transport, bottled water, and towels, which significantly enhances comfort, especially in the tropical heat. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included, making logistics straightforward. The price of $95.39 per person is quite reasonable considering the duration and personalized service.

However, entry tickets for temples, National Park passes, and boat rides are extra, so budget around $35 for these. Meals are also not included, but the tour’s flexibility allows you to enjoy local eateries, which many reviews praise for their delicious food.

The Real Value of This Tour

Many guests note how the guides and drivers go beyond just driving — they share stories and insights about Cambodia’s history, religion, and culture, making the experience richer. One reviewer said, “Sothea was super helpful and patient,” highlighting how personable and attentive the drivers are. The flexible schedule allows you to skip or linger at sites depending on your interests and energy levels.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

While the tour covers a lot, it does require early mornings and long days — not ideal for travelers seeking a leisurely pace. Since the admission tickets are not included, it’s essential to budget extra. Also, the optional sunset at Phnom Bakheng involves a two-hour wait at the top, which might be tiring but is often considered worth it for the views.

Who is this tour perfect for?

This specific itinerary suits travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible, and comfortable way to see the highlights of Angkor in a short period. It’s ideal if you prefer private transportation and guided insights but don’t need a dedicated tour guide at each site. The mix of major temples and off-the-beaten-path spots provides a good balance of iconic sights and local flavor. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate good value, authentic experiences, and the convenience of door-to-door service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as you’re comfortable with walking and early mornings. The tour is flexible, so you can adjust the pace according to your energy levels.

Are the drivers knowledgeable about the sites?
While they’re not official guides, many reviews mention that drivers share helpful historical insights, making the experience more enriching.

Does the tour include all entrance fees?
No, tickets for temples, the boat ride, and the national park are extra. Budget around $35 for these, and plan to buy tickets at each site.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss your preferences with the driver beforehand. This flexibility is a key benefit.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a hat, water, and possibly a camera. Breakfast can be packed if you want to catch the sunrise.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many solo travelers choose private tours for safety and convenience, especially if they’re unfamiliar with the region.

How early do I need to start for the sunrise at Angkor Wat?
You should leave your hotel around 4:40 am to catch the sunrise — it’s an unforgettable experience.

What is the overall pace of the tour?
Expect long, full days with plenty of time at each site, balanced with breaks and optional activities like sunset viewing.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day private taxi tour in Siem Reap offers a well-rounded approach to exploring Cambodia’s most famous temples and hidden sites. The combination of professional drivers, comfortable transport, and a flexible itinerary makes it an attractive choice for travelers who want a hassle-free experience without sacrificing depth or authenticity.

While it’s not a guided tour with a dedicated expert at every site, the drivers’ helpfulness and local insights compensate nicely, creating a friendly, educational atmosphere. The overall value is impressive given the price, especially as the tour covers some of the most iconic sights alongside lesser-known gems.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and local experiences over a guided commentary. If you’re eager to see Angkor’s highlights in a relaxed yet thorough way, this could be exactly what you’re looking for.

In summary, the 3-day taxi tour combines convenience, affordability, and authentic exploration. It’s perfect for those who want to maximize their temple visits without the stress of planning every detail themselves, and who appreciate friendly, knowledgeable drivers as part of the experience.